1. No matter the political persuasion, and no matter what the future may hold as to policy differences and ideologies, November 4, 2008 was a great day for the United States of America. As I listened to Senator McCain’s incredible concession speech, and then Senator Obama’s incredibly impressive victory speech, I sensed something in my heart from the Lord. Over 200 years as a nation, plus probably over 100 years before that as colonies, has been… changed.
Our Declaration of Independence talks about all men being created equal. Our system of government was set up to give all people equal opportunity. Yet, we had systematically shut out one class: the slaves. It took a Civil War to end slavery, but even since that time it has been a battle to not only speak of equal rights, but deliver on them. Barack Obama recognized that in the very first sentence of his speech last night:
“If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible, who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time, who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.”
On November 4, 2008, the United States of America rose up and did an amazing thing. Of course we could wish for someone else to accomplish it that might fit our own political leanings, but as Obama spoke, I sensed in my spirit a breaking. There was a healing that was flowing. It was deep and from the Spirit of God. Even though “my guy” didn’t win, I was thrilled in my spirit we had reached this moment in American history and I had the opportunity to be witness to it.
2. Barack Obama, on January 20, 2009 will be OUR president. As Christians, we do not disagree so vehemently we get an attitude like we witnessed in the George W. Bush years. It was so disappointing (and I’m being nice here) to see bumper stickers that said, “He’s not MY president.” Do not let that happen as Christians! Not with a Republican or a Democrat. We are called to be better citizens than that!
I will pray for my president. I may disagree on policy at times (or most of the time… we’ll see), but I will pray for him. I respect the office of president. I respect President-elect Barack Obama. In 1992 conservative Christians made a grave mistake disrespecting President Clinton. We do not need to make that mistake again.
3. This is clearly a call for the Church to again be the Body of Christ. We are not to tie our aspirations to the Democratic or Republican parties. We are to keep ourselves before the King of kings and Lord of lords. The arm of flesh will fail us. President-elect Obama will not have all the answers and he will not provide for my needs. It is Christ alone.
I am grateful for this moment in our history. I can get back to disagreeing with policies and ideologies another day. There is plenty of time. Today, in this moment, I want to give thanks to my God for this moment in American history. We’ll sort out all the rest later.
Usually it’s the Republicans who are bashed for hurting the poor. It turns out the Democrats are equal opportunity cutthroats as well.
